Disturbing digital evidence has emerged in the case of Tyler Robinson, the Utah teenager accused of murdering a man who allegedly killed conservative commentator Charlie Kirk's assistant. Court documents obtained by DailyMail.com reveal Robinson joked on Discord about resembling a potential assassin just weeks before the fatal shooting.
The 19-year-old from American Fork, Utah, stands accused of killing Christopher Staples, 30, in what authorities describe as a drug deal turned deadly on August 18th.
Chilling Digital Footprint
According to investigative documents, Robinson engaged in alarming conversations on the gaming platform Discord throughout July and August. In one particularly disturbing exchange, he remarked about his physical similarity to images of mass shooters that circulated online.
"I look like the motherfucker that's gonna assassinate Charlie Kirk," Robinson wrote, followed by laughing emojis. The message was sent approximately one month before Staples—who allegedly murdered Kirk's assistant—was shot dead.
Violent Rhetoric Escalates
The court filings paint a picture of escalating violent rhetoric. On August 10, Robinson messaged another user: "I'm gonna kill someone I swear to god."
When questioned by investigators about these communications, Robinson claimed they were merely "edgy jokes" made in poor taste. He maintained that his Discord messages were simply attempts to be humorous within his online circles.
Fatal Encounter
The situation turned deadly on August 18 when Robinson allegedly arranged to meet Staples to purchase cannabis. According to police reports, Robinson admitted to shooting Staples during the meeting but claimed it was in self-defense after Staples brandished a knife.
However, prosecutors argue forensic evidence contradicts this version of events. They note that Robinson allegedly disposed of the murder weapon and attempted to conceal evidence following the shooting.
Ongoing Investigation
Robinson currently remains in custody as investigators continue to examine digital evidence from multiple platforms. The case has drawn significant attention due to its connection to the earlier killing of Charlie Kirk's assistant.
Legal experts suggest the Discord messages could prove crucial in establishing intent and premeditation as the case moves toward trial.
